Steelers reach deal with first-round pick Dupree

Pittsburgh, PA (SportsNetwork.com) - The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Thursday that they have signed outside linebacker Bud Dupree, the team's first-round selection in the 2015 NFL Draft.

Dupree, who recorded 23 1/2 sacks and 38 tackles for loss over four seasons at Kentucky, was taken by the Steelers with the 22nd overall pick.

The 22-year-old earned honorable mention All-SEC honors as a senior at Kentucky after compiling 74 tackles, 7 1/2 sacks and one interception. Primarily a defensive end with the Wildcats, Dupree is expected to be used as an outside linebacker in the Steelers' 3-4 scheme.

Pittsburgh also signed its 2015 fifth-round choice, Penn State tight end Jesse James, on Thursday. The Steelers have yet to reach deals with Auburn wideout Sammie Coates (3rd round) and Louisville safety Gerod Holliman (7th round).